Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Bernard Valcourt will meet face to face in the wake of a deadly fire that killed two toddlers on the Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation.

Bellegarde sent a letter to Valcourt’s office on Friday asking for an immediate meeting to discuss the challenges First Nations face providing fire protection to their communities.

Bellegarde’s request for a meeting was granted.

“We have received National Chief Bellegarde’s letter, and yes the Minister will meet with the National Chief,” said a statement from Valcourt’s office.